1 00:00:00,571 --> 00:00:02,290 (upbeat music) 2 00:00:02,290 --> 00:00:06,333 Human populations grow, as does our footprint, 3 00:00:08,280 --> 00:00:11,023 paving over ever more of the natural world. 4 00:00:12,870 --> 00:00:15,043 Animals are displaced and homeless. 5 00:00:16,510 --> 00:00:19,320 But there is a growing band of urban warriors 6 00:00:19,320 --> 00:00:21,023 stepping up to the challenge, 7 00:00:23,720 --> 00:00:26,483 conquering this new concrete frontier. 8 00:00:29,640 --> 00:00:32,253 City life, for some, means living on the breadline. 9 00:00:35,770 --> 00:00:38,563 While others discover a land of opportunity. 10 00:00:41,820 --> 00:00:44,693 It's not easy having humans as their neighbors, 11 00:00:45,840 --> 00:00:50,840 but the versatile, adaptable, and determined city slickers 12 00:00:53,319 --> 00:00:57,337 are winning a place in our homes and our hearts. 13 00:01:05,371 --> 00:01:08,204 (birds squawking) 14 00:01:11,160 --> 00:01:13,763 Sun sets on another busy day in the city. 15 00:01:16,840 --> 00:01:18,903 Tired commuters head home. 16 00:01:25,620 --> 00:01:28,153 Police patrol the eerie back streets. 17 00:01:29,420 --> 00:01:32,680 And those seeking nightlife are drawn like moths 18 00:01:32,680 --> 00:01:34,893 to the bright lights of the main strip. 19 00:01:40,420 --> 00:01:42,713 But they are not the only party animals. 20 00:01:46,100 --> 00:01:48,110 If there's any animal that can give us 21 00:01:48,110 --> 00:01:51,463 the lowdown on city life, it's the red fox. 22 00:01:54,599 --> 00:01:57,349 (rhythmic music) 23 00:01:58,390 --> 00:02:02,890 True urbanites, these cunning and adaptable animals 24 00:02:02,890 --> 00:02:05,043 live right under our noses. 25 00:02:16,180 --> 00:02:17,730 These urban warriors 26 00:02:17,730 --> 00:02:20,663 know how to snatch every opportunity they can. 27 00:02:33,050 --> 00:02:35,210 With the distant hum of nightclubs, 28 00:02:35,210 --> 00:02:38,650 where humans with alcohol-induced confidence 29 00:02:38,650 --> 00:02:39,733 are looking for love, 30 00:02:43,750 --> 00:02:45,270 a vixen seems swayed 31 00:02:45,270 --> 00:02:47,473 by the romantic glow of street lighting. 32 00:02:54,840 --> 00:02:58,080 The foxy female has spotted a handsome urbanite 33 00:02:58,080 --> 00:03:00,243 who clearly knows his way about town. 34 00:03:14,015 --> 00:03:16,690 (uplifting music) 35 00:03:16,690 --> 00:03:19,923 Their love story begins in the heart of the city. 36 00:03:27,267 --> 00:03:29,370 But for creatures of the forest, 37 00:03:29,370 --> 00:03:31,343 this seems a far cry from home. 38 00:03:32,489 --> 00:03:35,239 (dramatic music) 39 00:03:38,490 --> 00:03:41,250 The latest studies suggest humans have altered 40 00:03:41,250 --> 00:03:43,893 97% of the Earth surface. 41 00:03:50,650 --> 00:03:53,330 Of course, most of it is used as farmland 42 00:03:53,330 --> 00:03:55,423 to feed our growing populations. 43 00:04:02,730 --> 00:04:06,510 Urban sprawl is still a relatively small part of the planet, 44 00:04:06,510 --> 00:04:10,240 but still 10% has been paved and built on 45 00:04:10,240 --> 00:04:11,643 and is classed as urban. 46 00:04:17,370 --> 00:04:20,330 We often pick the best, most productive places 47 00:04:20,330 --> 00:04:24,143 to locate ourselves, seizing prime wildlife habitat. 48 00:04:29,210 --> 00:04:31,693 The boundary line is constantly shifting, 49 00:04:34,260 --> 00:04:37,511 encroaching further into green spaces 50 00:04:37,511 --> 00:04:41,420 and resulting in conflict between our needs 51 00:04:41,420 --> 00:04:43,583 and the needs of the wild residents. 52 00:04:47,390 --> 00:04:50,660 Most species, especially the large ones, 53 00:04:50,660 --> 00:04:52,863 are removed or displaced. 54 00:04:56,020 --> 00:04:58,403 With nearly eight billion people on the planet, 55 00:04:59,540 --> 00:05:02,123 these humanitats are becoming the norm. 56 00:05:07,260 --> 00:05:09,290 In a human-dominated world, 57 00:05:09,290 --> 00:05:12,860 where wildlife is under ever increasing pressure, 58 00:05:12,860 --> 00:05:15,300 for many, the best chance of a future 59 00:05:15,300 --> 00:05:18,013 is to embrace a more urbanized way of life. 60 00:05:22,910 --> 00:05:26,360 Moving into the city doesn't appeal to everyone, 61 00:05:26,360 --> 00:05:29,860 but there is a global uprising of synanthropes, 62 00:05:29,860 --> 00:05:31,420 species that are embracing 63 00:05:31,420 --> 00:05:34,303 the benefits of living in the concrete jungle. 64 00:05:35,143 --> 00:05:38,120 (rhythmic music) 65 00:05:38,120 --> 00:05:41,053 Cities around the world are supporting not only humans, 66 00:05:44,370 --> 00:05:46,023 but all manner of creatures. 67 00:05:48,350 --> 00:05:53,350 From monkeys in Japan to alligators in the Florida Keys, 68 00:05:56,400 --> 00:05:58,143 baboons in South Africa, 69 00:06:01,030 --> 00:06:04,203 and even penguins on the much sought after coast. 70 00:06:08,830 --> 00:06:11,380 Some have made it to the very hearts of our cities, 71 00:06:12,760 --> 00:06:15,503 which is exactly what the red fox has done. 72 00:06:16,909 --> 00:06:18,090 (upbeat music) 73 00:06:18,090 --> 00:06:19,640 The couple have settled, 74 00:06:19,640 --> 00:06:23,050 finding mobile buildings at the edge of a construction site 75 00:06:23,050 --> 00:06:25,900 that might offer the space and protection they need 76 00:06:25,900 --> 00:06:27,083 to start a family. 77 00:06:29,950 --> 00:06:33,153 Red foxes are the epitome of urban wildlife. 78 00:06:39,210 --> 00:06:41,053 City life isn't for everyone. 79 00:06:42,620 --> 00:06:45,000 Some species are too shy and secretive 80 00:06:46,130 --> 00:06:47,863 and can't get used to people, 81 00:06:48,930 --> 00:06:52,243 or are too specialist to change their diets or lifestyles. 82 00:06:55,960 --> 00:06:58,450 Most of the urbanites are generalists 83 00:06:58,450 --> 00:07:01,283 and often omnivores, like foxes. 84 00:07:04,700 --> 00:07:06,940 Adaptable and opportunist, 85 00:07:06,940 --> 00:07:08,973 they have been able to make it work. 86 00:07:11,400 --> 00:07:14,970 Cities are not sterile environments. 87 00:07:14,970 --> 00:07:18,960 They are modern ecosystems, some healthier than others, 88 00:07:18,960 --> 00:07:22,167 that can support a surprising wealth of wildlife. 89 00:07:22,167 --> 00:07:25,000 (birds squawking) 90 00:07:27,660 --> 00:07:29,810 Raccoons are common urbanites, 91 00:07:29,810 --> 00:07:32,783 mostly in the cities of their homeland, North America. 92 00:07:36,960 --> 00:07:38,350 But there are some immigrants 93 00:07:38,350 --> 00:07:41,573 who enjoy picking over the trash in European cities too. 94 00:07:44,730 --> 00:07:47,530 Garbage, though not the healthiest resource, 95 00:07:47,530 --> 00:07:49,350 is all too abundant, 96 00:07:49,350 --> 00:07:51,833 and animals have learned to make the most of it, 97 00:07:55,330 --> 00:08:00,330 especially foxes and rodents, 98 00:08:01,190 --> 00:08:04,100 which are perhaps much more abundant around our homes 99 00:08:04,100 --> 00:08:05,873 than we care to recognize. 100 00:08:12,210 --> 00:08:15,400 And really it's these rodents, not the rubbish, 101 00:08:15,400 --> 00:08:17,123 that keeps the foxes healthy. 102 00:08:18,508 --> 00:08:21,091 (upbeat music) 103 00:08:23,570 --> 00:08:25,973 Living in the city, they are plentiful. 104 00:08:36,230 --> 00:08:39,350 Humans can be uncertain about having the wild dogs 105 00:08:39,350 --> 00:08:43,843 roaming their patch, but they should be regarded as friends 106 00:08:47,450 --> 00:08:50,153 for their skillful pest control services. 107 00:08:52,347 --> 00:08:54,930 (gentle music) 108 00:09:04,260 --> 00:09:08,120 As the sun rises on the city, the sound levels build 109 00:09:11,570 --> 00:09:14,893 as the daily grind for human residents gets underway. 110 00:09:21,060 --> 00:09:23,803 But it's not just people contributing to the din. 111 00:09:26,860 --> 00:09:29,963 Urban environments have their own dawn chorus. 112 00:09:32,290 --> 00:09:34,220 There's a wide variety of songbirds 113 00:09:34,220 --> 00:09:36,420 that have mastered this modern mode of life. 114 00:09:39,490 --> 00:09:42,240 Though it has required some considerable modifications. 115 00:09:50,610 --> 00:09:52,600 Cities are noisy places, 116 00:09:52,600 --> 00:09:55,940 and as populations and traffic have grown, 117 00:09:55,940 --> 00:09:59,270 birds were finding their territorial and courtship calls 118 00:09:59,270 --> 00:10:00,593 were being drowned out. 119 00:10:02,830 --> 00:10:07,160 So, many species, such as blackbirds and great tits, 120 00:10:07,160 --> 00:10:08,763 have switched frequencies. 121 00:10:11,100 --> 00:10:13,180 They now sing at higher frequencies 122 00:10:13,180 --> 00:10:15,430 than their country cousins, 123 00:10:15,430 --> 00:10:17,920 trying to cut through the background noise 124 00:10:17,920 --> 00:10:20,658 and increase the power of their voices. 125 00:10:20,658 --> 00:10:23,710 (birds singing) 126 00:10:23,710 --> 00:10:25,760 There are some populations of blackbirds 127 00:10:25,760 --> 00:10:28,380 that have modified their calls so much 128 00:10:28,380 --> 00:10:30,950 that they are no longer recognized by their relatives 129 00:10:30,950 --> 00:10:31,993 in the countryside. 130 00:10:33,490 --> 00:10:36,363 And the two populations no longer breed with each other. 131 00:10:38,500 --> 00:10:40,703 They are becoming true urbanites. 132 00:10:46,960 --> 00:10:49,723 Cities can be productive places for birds. 133 00:10:50,770 --> 00:10:53,710 With people, vehicles, and industry, 134 00:10:53,710 --> 00:10:55,630 they are often a little warmer, 135 00:10:55,630 --> 00:10:58,123 with buildings buffering against bad weather. 136 00:11:01,020 --> 00:11:03,140 Because of the presence of humans, 137 00:11:03,140 --> 00:11:08,140 predators are less common, and food can be plentiful, 138 00:11:09,330 --> 00:11:12,439 especially in well-planted gardens. 139 00:11:12,439 --> 00:11:15,022 (gentle music) 140 00:11:16,680 --> 00:11:18,520 Some birds are even more direct 141 00:11:18,520 --> 00:11:20,993 in taking advantage of their human neighbors. 142 00:11:23,040 --> 00:11:25,490 This blackbird seems a little obsessed 143 00:11:25,490 --> 00:11:27,263 with what's going on in the garden. 144 00:11:31,200 --> 00:11:34,823 It knows the digging is likely to expose earthworms, 145 00:11:36,460 --> 00:11:39,597 a much appreciated meal to take home for the family. 146 00:11:50,696 --> 00:11:53,700 He, like so many urbanites, have learned to make the most of 147 00:11:53,700 --> 00:11:56,123 a small apartment in the heart of the city. 148 00:11:59,560 --> 00:12:02,260 Adapting to artificial constructions, 149 00:12:02,260 --> 00:12:04,300 and the little gaps they create, 150 00:12:04,300 --> 00:12:06,720 is a major step in building a home here. 151 00:12:08,842 --> 00:12:11,592 (rhythmic music) 152 00:12:19,990 --> 00:12:23,270 For the foxes, a little gap under a portacabin 153 00:12:23,270 --> 00:12:24,603 has become a nursery. 154 00:12:29,320 --> 00:12:32,150 It's a sturdy shelter that protect the cubs 155 00:12:32,150 --> 00:12:34,123 while they learn to get streetwise. 156 00:12:44,000 --> 00:12:46,770 The parents ferry back treasures, 157 00:12:46,770 --> 00:12:48,760 mostly rodents displaced by 158 00:12:48,760 --> 00:12:50,460 the neighboring construction work. 159 00:13:06,590 --> 00:13:09,690 Their den sites seems to have a constant entourage 160 00:13:09,690 --> 00:13:11,360 of hooded crows, 161 00:13:11,360 --> 00:13:14,373 eagle-eyed opportunists looking for scraps. 162 00:13:21,650 --> 00:13:25,540 There's a general trend that big brain species adapt best 163 00:13:25,540 --> 00:13:26,373 to city life. 164 00:13:27,808 --> 00:13:30,641 (birds squawking) 165 00:13:34,520 --> 00:13:37,200 And the highly intelligent crow family 166 00:13:37,200 --> 00:13:38,743 seem to have settled in well. 167 00:13:45,140 --> 00:13:48,253 Sharp-eyed and smart, they don't miss an opportunity. 168 00:13:56,150 --> 00:13:58,970 One thing that can make a suburb attractive 169 00:13:58,970 --> 00:14:00,533 is a tree-lined street. 170 00:14:02,640 --> 00:14:06,433 Trees are beneficial to us, not only in producing oxygen. 171 00:14:07,550 --> 00:14:10,770 They create shade, cooling the street down, 172 00:14:10,770 --> 00:14:12,740 and filter out some of the pollutants 173 00:14:12,740 --> 00:14:14,033 that come from traffic. 174 00:14:16,410 --> 00:14:18,173 But some have drawbacks. 175 00:14:19,340 --> 00:14:23,943 Sweet gums are American trees that produce spiny seed pods, 176 00:14:26,420 --> 00:14:29,403 well defended against attack, for the most part. 177 00:14:34,500 --> 00:14:39,220 Usually shy forest dwellers, nutcrackers, a type of crow, 178 00:14:39,220 --> 00:14:41,223 are moving into the burbs to cash in. 179 00:14:46,219 --> 00:14:47,052 They are one of few species 180 00:14:47,052 --> 00:14:49,430 with the beak power and ingenuity 181 00:14:49,430 --> 00:14:53,053 to wriggle between the spines and extract small seeds. 182 00:14:54,686 --> 00:14:57,436 (rhythmic music) 183 00:15:17,190 --> 00:15:19,240 Other birds exploit the seeds, 184 00:15:19,240 --> 00:15:21,340 but they have to wait for some assistance. 185 00:15:27,960 --> 00:15:30,083 Passing cars unlock the treasure, 186 00:15:34,910 --> 00:15:37,883 and sparrows are smart enough to sit and wait. 187 00:15:43,140 --> 00:15:45,000 Sparrows, along with pigeons, 188 00:15:45,000 --> 00:15:47,513 are often considered common urbanites. 189 00:15:49,540 --> 00:15:52,050 Species that have been transported around the world 190 00:15:52,050 --> 00:15:55,203 by people, and have colonized most cities. 191 00:16:01,010 --> 00:16:03,943 But the presence of these birds attracts attention. 192 00:16:07,520 --> 00:16:11,530 Predators might be scarcer prowling the city streets, 193 00:16:11,530 --> 00:16:13,113 but they are not absent. 194 00:16:14,186 --> 00:16:16,380 (suspenseful music) 195 00:16:16,380 --> 00:16:19,640 The biggest threats to birds and other small animals 196 00:16:19,640 --> 00:16:21,123 are free-roaming cats. 197 00:16:36,700 --> 00:16:41,350 They fall into the category of human obligates, our pets, 198 00:16:41,350 --> 00:16:43,363 domestic animals that we support. 199 00:16:45,680 --> 00:16:49,003 But cats in particular retain their killer instinct. 200 00:16:52,710 --> 00:16:56,400 They have become a major player in the urban food chain, 201 00:16:56,400 --> 00:16:59,523 filling the role of predators in more natural settings. 202 00:17:03,460 --> 00:17:05,370 Though because of our love of pets, 203 00:17:05,370 --> 00:17:08,300 they can sometimes be found in much higher numbers 204 00:17:08,300 --> 00:17:10,743 than any natural density of predators, 205 00:17:12,530 --> 00:17:14,673 taking a heavy toll on wildlife. 206 00:17:16,300 --> 00:17:17,463 Birds beware. 207 00:17:21,680 --> 00:17:23,733 But there are more natural dangers, 208 00:17:24,600 --> 00:17:26,463 even in the hearts of our cities. 209 00:17:28,690 --> 00:17:32,163 One of the most dramatic urban warriors rules the skies. 210 00:17:34,170 --> 00:17:37,993 Traditionally, peregrine falcons are cliff-nesters. 211 00:17:44,910 --> 00:17:47,803 But as their world has disappeared under concrete, 212 00:17:49,090 --> 00:17:51,410 they have found city blocks and church spires 213 00:17:51,410 --> 00:17:53,903 make equally good lofty perches. 214 00:17:58,190 --> 00:18:00,960 And our cities are teeming with pigeons, 215 00:18:00,960 --> 00:18:02,333 their favorite food. 216 00:18:04,800 --> 00:18:06,580 Most of the world's great cities 217 00:18:06,580 --> 00:18:09,723 now host breeding pairs of the spectacular birds. 218 00:18:12,430 --> 00:18:15,750 You don't need to call pest control to deal with pigeons 219 00:18:15,750 --> 00:18:18,450 if you have a family of these nearby. 220 00:18:18,450 --> 00:18:20,823 They are happy to perform the service for free. 221 00:18:27,110 --> 00:18:28,920 A surprising number of predators 222 00:18:28,920 --> 00:18:31,483 can take advantage of urban spaces. 223 00:18:33,090 --> 00:18:35,423 They are considered human adapters. 224 00:18:36,830 --> 00:18:39,910 They don't benefit from human neighbors directly, 225 00:18:39,910 --> 00:18:42,430 but have learned to live alongside us 226 00:18:42,430 --> 00:18:45,780 and benefit from prey like pigeons and rodents, 227 00:18:45,780 --> 00:18:47,373 that thrive in our mess. 228 00:18:51,500 --> 00:18:53,993 These predators can range from weasels, 229 00:19:00,314 --> 00:19:02,981 to caracals and other wild cats. 230 00:19:09,220 --> 00:19:10,133 To coyotes. 231 00:19:20,640 --> 00:19:22,393 And even black bears. 232 00:19:26,170 --> 00:19:28,683 They prefer to avoid contact with people, 233 00:19:29,850 --> 00:19:32,673 often operating under the cover of darkness. 234 00:19:34,500 --> 00:19:37,853 It can be hard for larger species to hide on the streets, 235 00:19:38,980 --> 00:19:41,663 but fortunately, there are pockets of green. 236 00:19:43,510 --> 00:19:47,133 Island oases like parks and graveyards. 237 00:19:47,133 --> 00:19:49,716 (gentle music) 238 00:19:53,200 --> 00:19:56,290 For animals looking to make it in the city, 239 00:19:56,290 --> 00:19:58,353 this is prime real estate. 240 00:20:01,080 --> 00:20:03,600 The lush lawn between the graves 241 00:20:03,600 --> 00:20:05,653 offers rich grazing to wild fowl. 242 00:20:08,320 --> 00:20:10,833 And of course there are rodents. 243 00:20:14,140 --> 00:20:16,110 But the well-planted graveyard 244 00:20:16,110 --> 00:20:18,594 shields a harbinger of death. 245 00:20:18,594 --> 00:20:21,177 (tense music) 246 00:20:23,910 --> 00:20:26,993 At least to the city rats. 247 00:20:41,730 --> 00:20:44,890 It's a refuge, a quiet oasis, 248 00:20:44,890 --> 00:20:48,743 secluded enough for huge eagle owls to raise their brood. 249 00:20:52,520 --> 00:20:55,310 These are creatures of wilderness, 250 00:20:55,310 --> 00:20:56,550 but have found enough space 251 00:20:56,550 --> 00:20:58,250 to put up with neighboring people. 252 00:21:05,440 --> 00:21:09,040 The foxes also include the graveyards on their beat. 253 00:21:09,040 --> 00:21:11,790 (rhythmic music) 254 00:21:17,910 --> 00:21:21,770 It's good hunting grounds, and their cubs are growing fast 255 00:21:21,770 --> 00:21:24,640 and starting to want to supplement milk diets 256 00:21:24,640 --> 00:21:26,023 with meaty treats. 257 00:21:37,410 --> 00:21:42,363 For all urban warriors, the green spaces are an oasis, 258 00:21:43,770 --> 00:21:46,363 and not just for wildlife but for us too. 259 00:21:48,520 --> 00:21:51,230 It's scientifically proven that for all of us, 260 00:21:51,230 --> 00:21:52,833 green spaces are vital. 261 00:21:55,350 --> 00:21:58,703 They help us to sleep better, feel happier, 262 00:22:02,200 --> 00:22:06,270 and can reduce the risk of developing anxiety, depression, 263 00:22:06,270 --> 00:22:08,283 and other psychiatric disorders. 264 00:22:09,460 --> 00:22:11,540 Reduce the risk of high blood pressure 265 00:22:11,540 --> 00:22:13,453 and cardiovascular disease. 266 00:22:15,770 --> 00:22:19,550 It also encourages socializing, exercise, 267 00:22:19,550 --> 00:22:22,383 and an escape from noise and chaos. 268 00:22:23,920 --> 00:22:25,863 It even improves air quality. 269 00:22:28,080 --> 00:22:30,480 It's especially important in cities 270 00:22:30,480 --> 00:22:33,410 where crowding is proven to increase stress levels 271 00:22:33,410 --> 00:22:34,913 and damage mental health. 272 00:22:39,960 --> 00:22:42,483 These green spaces are the cure. 273 00:22:44,360 --> 00:22:48,120 A study revealed that two hours a week in nature 274 00:22:48,120 --> 00:22:50,633 produces higher levels of health and wellbeing. 275 00:23:01,260 --> 00:23:03,160 It's no surprise they are a hub 276 00:23:03,160 --> 00:23:05,143 for our wild urban warriors too. 277 00:23:10,800 --> 00:23:13,320 And it's not just green spaces we are drawn to 278 00:23:13,320 --> 00:23:16,943 in our cities, but blue space as well. 279 00:23:19,790 --> 00:23:22,693 Most of our cities are built on rivers and estuaries, 280 00:23:26,320 --> 00:23:29,743 originally because of shipping access for trading produce. 281 00:23:33,510 --> 00:23:36,880 But now waterfront homes, whether on the coast, 282 00:23:36,880 --> 00:23:39,890 rivers, or lakes, are much sought after 283 00:23:39,890 --> 00:23:41,953 and command the highest prices. 284 00:23:51,730 --> 00:23:54,173 Though this is space wildlife wants too. 285 00:24:00,630 --> 00:24:02,760 We use the blue for playtime, 286 00:24:02,760 --> 00:24:05,023 but nature needs it to make their living. 287 00:24:13,106 --> 00:24:14,497 There can be just as much competition for waterfront homes 288 00:24:15,750 --> 00:24:18,853 among the animal community, as there is for us. 289 00:24:20,690 --> 00:24:25,223 Somehow, amid the chaos, they manage to start families. 290 00:24:25,223 --> 00:24:28,056 (uplifting music) 291 00:24:42,200 --> 00:24:45,690 Far from being sterile, cities have ecosystems 292 00:24:45,690 --> 00:24:47,203 like any other habitat. 293 00:24:52,540 --> 00:24:55,573 Each urbanite trying to carve out its niche. 294 00:24:57,600 --> 00:24:59,823 And fortune favors the brave. 295 00:25:01,217 --> 00:25:03,800 (upbeat music) 296 00:25:09,100 --> 00:25:11,320 The family of stoats and weasels 297 00:25:11,320 --> 00:25:13,333 are among the boldest predators, 298 00:25:23,344 --> 00:25:28,344 ready to tackle the challenges of city living head on. 299 00:25:28,600 --> 00:25:31,160 They are excellent pest control, 300 00:25:31,160 --> 00:25:35,980 hunting the city's many rodents, but are also opportunists, 301 00:25:35,980 --> 00:25:37,700 and swan's eggs are treasure 302 00:25:37,700 --> 00:25:40,313 that's hard for a polecat to resist. 303 00:25:54,310 --> 00:25:57,350 There's a startling variety of creatures that can turn up 304 00:25:57,350 --> 00:25:58,633 at the end of the garden. 305 00:26:27,100 --> 00:26:29,910 Manatees sometimes have a hard time 306 00:26:29,910 --> 00:26:31,730 from their human neighbors, 307 00:26:31,730 --> 00:26:35,293 not because they are hated but because they are loved. 308 00:26:36,491 --> 00:26:39,074 (gentle music) 309 00:26:43,340 --> 00:26:46,123 People flock to swim with the gentle giants. 310 00:27:03,100 --> 00:27:05,113 But to survive cold winters, 311 00:27:07,160 --> 00:27:10,463 it's essential the manatees rest in the warmer shallows. 312 00:27:16,320 --> 00:27:19,853 And too much human attention can drive them out. 313 00:27:24,830 --> 00:27:27,253 They face another common urban issue. 314 00:27:31,260 --> 00:27:34,520 On land, roads can be deathtraps 315 00:27:35,570 --> 00:27:37,673 for humans and animals alike. 316 00:27:38,580 --> 00:27:40,993 Collisions with cars can take a heavy toll. 317 00:27:46,000 --> 00:27:51,000 And in blue spaces, there is just as much traffic. 318 00:27:53,980 --> 00:27:57,373 Most manatees bear the scars from run-ins with boats. 319 00:28:03,400 --> 00:28:06,393 These creatures, alligators and manatees, 320 00:28:08,260 --> 00:28:10,330 are not here because they are trying to break into 321 00:28:10,330 --> 00:28:11,923 the urban housing market. 322 00:28:12,940 --> 00:28:15,410 They are not new arrivals. 323 00:28:15,410 --> 00:28:17,170 The demand for waterfront homes 324 00:28:17,170 --> 00:28:20,963 has led to towns and cities being built on their turf. 325 00:28:30,970 --> 00:28:33,803 Adapting to a modern lifestyle isn't easy, 326 00:28:35,280 --> 00:28:37,053 but they have nowhere else to go. 327 00:28:45,525 --> 00:28:49,170 All over the world, the rollout of urban sprawl 328 00:28:49,170 --> 00:28:53,163 and the transition from soil to cement is relentless, 329 00:28:54,090 --> 00:28:57,440 and often doesn't take into account the residents 330 00:28:57,440 --> 00:28:58,833 who were there first. 331 00:29:03,410 --> 00:29:05,470 Many animals find structures appearing 332 00:29:05,470 --> 00:29:07,503 on their ancient migration routes. 333 00:29:15,140 --> 00:29:18,897 On Christmas Island, it's hard to build anything 334 00:29:21,930 --> 00:29:24,933 without finding it in the path of a crab migration. 335 00:29:26,179 --> 00:29:28,762 (gentle music) 336 00:29:35,080 --> 00:29:37,663 The golf course gets regular invasions. 337 00:29:47,200 --> 00:29:50,993 For animals living near people, there are high stakes. 338 00:30:20,010 --> 00:30:22,300 And for the people who move in, 339 00:30:22,300 --> 00:30:25,543 they need to get used to some unconventional house guests. 340 00:30:32,781 --> 00:30:35,531 (rhythmic music) 341 00:31:06,870 --> 00:31:10,123 Animals in the wild learn to exploit their habitat, 342 00:31:11,580 --> 00:31:13,533 making homes in boulder piles. 343 00:31:15,630 --> 00:31:16,483 On cliffs. 344 00:31:19,100 --> 00:31:20,513 In tree hollows. 345 00:31:22,700 --> 00:31:24,690 And it doesn't take them too long 346 00:31:24,690 --> 00:31:26,643 to find manmade equivalents. 347 00:31:30,750 --> 00:31:32,950 Like most city dwellers, 348 00:31:32,950 --> 00:31:35,430 they might have to sacrifice space and surroundings 349 00:31:35,430 --> 00:31:36,913 for a central location. 350 00:31:39,970 --> 00:31:42,843 But some species are good at making it work. 351 00:31:46,320 --> 00:31:48,093 Older buildings are ideal. 352 00:31:49,520 --> 00:31:51,570 Cracks and crags from wear and tear 353 00:31:51,570 --> 00:31:54,453 can make the neat spots to live or raise young. 354 00:32:04,440 --> 00:32:06,880 Cities are often melting pots for beings 355 00:32:06,880 --> 00:32:08,453 from different walks of life. 356 00:32:13,450 --> 00:32:16,490 The mixed neighborhoods can bring challenges, 357 00:32:16,490 --> 00:32:20,123 but for the most part, residents manage to rub along. 358 00:32:27,430 --> 00:32:30,143 To both the lesser kestrels and the sparrows, 359 00:32:31,090 --> 00:32:33,720 the rooftop apartments are well worth putting up with 360 00:32:33,720 --> 00:32:34,620 the neighbors for. 361 00:32:36,068 --> 00:32:38,651 (gentle music) 362 00:33:12,960 --> 00:33:17,297 As the street lights come on and the house lights go off, 363 00:33:20,319 --> 00:33:21,819 the human night shift emerges. 364 00:33:25,100 --> 00:33:27,030 And in the same buildings, 365 00:33:27,030 --> 00:33:29,413 the nocturnal animals also clock in. 366 00:33:40,700 --> 00:33:45,303 Only the oldest, quietest outbuildings can entice barn owls. 367 00:33:53,570 --> 00:33:55,350 And the rodents therein. 368 00:34:06,070 --> 00:34:07,993 Though the owls are quite fussy, 369 00:34:10,670 --> 00:34:13,680 bats seem to find lofts a suitable replacement 370 00:34:13,680 --> 00:34:15,423 for caves and tree hollows. 371 00:34:18,020 --> 00:34:20,130 With their echolocation, 372 00:34:20,130 --> 00:34:22,650 they can easily navigate buildings and beams 373 00:34:22,650 --> 00:34:23,863 as they would trees, 374 00:34:24,860 --> 00:34:27,803 and scan for cracks to get in and out of our homes. 375 00:34:30,484 --> 00:34:33,151 (clock chiming) 376 00:34:39,520 --> 00:34:42,307 As we sleep, they are working hard 377 00:34:45,910 --> 00:34:47,570 to rid the city of mosquitoes 378 00:34:47,570 --> 00:34:50,393 and other biting and disease-spreading insects. 379 00:34:51,653 --> 00:34:54,486 (uplifting music) 380 00:35:12,180 --> 00:35:15,590 People often complain about bats in their homes, 381 00:35:15,590 --> 00:35:17,833 though they are very beneficial to us. 382 00:35:34,950 --> 00:35:37,800 Many urban warriors trying to make their way in the city 383 00:35:37,800 --> 00:35:39,913 are regarded by us as pests. 384 00:35:45,650 --> 00:35:47,293 Especially rodents. 385 00:35:49,440 --> 00:35:53,250 Noisy at night, destructively nibbling at our homes 386 00:35:53,250 --> 00:35:54,510 and power supplies, 387 00:35:54,510 --> 00:35:57,413 and leaving droppings that can become a health hazard, 388 00:36:02,040 --> 00:36:03,953 they are often poisoned or trapped. 389 00:36:06,820 --> 00:36:08,793 This edible dormouse is lucky. 390 00:36:10,720 --> 00:36:12,840 Named by Romans for their fondness 391 00:36:12,840 --> 00:36:14,800 of eating the little rodents, 392 00:36:14,800 --> 00:36:17,170 this one's not for the table, 393 00:36:17,170 --> 00:36:19,973 but for release in a more suitable corner of the city. 394 00:36:21,631 --> 00:36:24,298 (gentle music) 395 00:36:37,270 --> 00:36:39,380 Moving and discouraging wildlife 396 00:36:39,380 --> 00:36:43,100 is a vital part of finding a balance in urban spaces, 397 00:36:43,100 --> 00:36:46,410 for facilitating both human and animal needs 398 00:36:46,410 --> 00:36:48,103 by reducing conflict. 399 00:36:56,120 --> 00:36:59,150 All cities have their share of ugly spaces, 400 00:36:59,150 --> 00:37:02,000 often around industrial areas. 401 00:37:02,000 --> 00:37:04,643 They are thought of as wasteland. 402 00:37:04,643 --> 00:37:07,393 (rhythmic music) 403 00:37:10,100 --> 00:37:12,863 But one man's waste is another's treasure. 404 00:37:18,550 --> 00:37:21,400 Because they are something of a no-man's land, 405 00:37:21,400 --> 00:37:23,283 they can provide a bit of sanctuary. 406 00:37:24,138 --> 00:37:26,721 (gentle music) 407 00:38:04,130 --> 00:38:07,273 Wildlife is incredible at seizing opportunities. 408 00:38:15,050 --> 00:38:17,263 Few more so than the cunning fox. 409 00:38:20,880 --> 00:38:22,790 This modern family is doing well. 410 00:38:35,300 --> 00:38:37,000 The cubs have grown fast 411 00:38:37,000 --> 00:38:39,500 and their games are taking them further from home. 412 00:38:40,940 --> 00:38:44,060 The rough and tumbles improve their coordination, 413 00:38:44,060 --> 00:38:45,580 something especially useful 414 00:38:45,580 --> 00:38:47,763 as they start to try their hand at hunting. 415 00:38:55,290 --> 00:38:58,173 Everyone living in the city has to earn their keep. 416 00:39:05,930 --> 00:39:09,710 The human fox relationship is complicated. 417 00:39:09,710 --> 00:39:11,490 Some hate or fear them 418 00:39:11,490 --> 00:39:14,123 and worry about them as a threat to pets. 419 00:39:51,520 --> 00:39:53,903 Other people leave out food to encourage them. 420 00:39:59,991 --> 00:40:03,113 Yet other species are welcomed with open arms. 421 00:40:03,113 --> 00:40:06,030 (uplifting music) 422 00:40:28,500 --> 00:40:30,940 We spend millions on food for birds 423 00:40:30,940 --> 00:40:33,053 and other garden wildlife, 424 00:40:37,490 --> 00:40:39,200 and we put up nest boxes 425 00:40:39,200 --> 00:40:41,550 to give our feathered neighbors a helping hand. 426 00:40:46,170 --> 00:40:48,650 These elegant modern starter homes 427 00:40:48,650 --> 00:40:51,160 are every urban family's dream, 428 00:40:51,160 --> 00:40:53,603 so competition can be fierce. 429 00:40:54,518 --> 00:40:57,268 (rhythmic music) 430 00:41:32,560 --> 00:41:34,863 Thankfully there are plenty to go around. 431 00:41:37,540 --> 00:41:40,223 And if not, the birds can improvise. 432 00:42:07,920 --> 00:42:09,390 Providing food and shelter 433 00:42:09,390 --> 00:42:12,100 is one way we can all help the wild animals 434 00:42:12,100 --> 00:42:14,023 willing to try the urban jungle. 435 00:42:18,760 --> 00:42:20,963 Life on the streets is far from easy. 436 00:42:24,670 --> 00:42:28,243 Light pollution can make it hard for creatures to sleep. 437 00:42:37,550 --> 00:42:38,930 Songbirds sing all night, 438 00:42:38,930 --> 00:42:41,763 instead of saving energy for raising their families. 439 00:42:45,160 --> 00:42:48,063 There's pollution and the threat from traffic. 440 00:42:49,490 --> 00:42:52,073 Even in this already altered environment, 441 00:42:53,250 --> 00:42:56,380 there is a real risk of further habitat loss, 442 00:42:56,380 --> 00:42:59,100 as wasteland and old buildings are redeveloped 443 00:42:59,100 --> 00:43:00,203 and gardens paved. 444 00:43:08,106 --> 00:43:11,106 And that time has come to the foxes. 445 00:43:12,460 --> 00:43:14,840 The building project is over, 446 00:43:14,840 --> 00:43:17,720 the mobile units are no longer required, 447 00:43:17,720 --> 00:43:20,943 and the foxes are served their eviction notices. 448 00:43:35,241 --> 00:43:39,408 This homeless family is forced to hit the streets. 449 00:43:58,490 --> 00:44:01,833 We also deliberately tried to get rid of some species. 450 00:44:04,320 --> 00:44:07,363 Slugs and snails are a gardener's enemy number one. 451 00:44:13,370 --> 00:44:16,213 They can destroy a crop with startling efficiency, 452 00:44:20,110 --> 00:44:22,971 and they are very hard to control. 453 00:44:22,971 --> 00:44:25,888 (fast-paced music) 454 00:44:42,107 --> 00:44:44,750 Unfortunately, many a disgruntled gardener 455 00:44:44,750 --> 00:44:46,313 turns to slug pellets. 456 00:44:48,490 --> 00:44:50,853 But poisons have consequences. 457 00:44:55,140 --> 00:44:58,770 They move up the food chain and can kill other species 458 00:44:58,770 --> 00:45:00,443 like birds and hedgehogs. 459 00:45:05,860 --> 00:45:09,530 The combination of habitat loss and fragmentation, 460 00:45:09,530 --> 00:45:11,560 roadkill and poisons, 461 00:45:11,560 --> 00:45:15,153 are giving some urban species a really hard time. 462 00:45:19,200 --> 00:45:21,400 In the U.K., hedgehogs, 463 00:45:21,400 --> 00:45:23,760 everyone's favorite garden visitor, 464 00:45:23,760 --> 00:45:27,833 have declined by 97% since 1950. 465 00:45:34,760 --> 00:45:37,230 Ironically, gardeners put down poisons 466 00:45:37,230 --> 00:45:40,420 to kill slugs and snails, but given a chance, 467 00:45:40,420 --> 00:45:42,573 the hedgehog would do it for them. 468 00:45:43,890 --> 00:45:46,233 A free and healthy pest control service. 469 00:45:57,030 --> 00:45:59,220 Helping hedgehogs is easy. 470 00:45:59,220 --> 00:46:01,180 Just leave them a little bit of cover 471 00:46:01,180 --> 00:46:03,090 and small holes in fences, 472 00:46:03,090 --> 00:46:05,303 so they can pass from garden to garden. 473 00:46:12,320 --> 00:46:14,363 There are green spaces in cities, 474 00:46:15,410 --> 00:46:19,340 but the barriers we create, roads and fences, 475 00:46:19,340 --> 00:46:21,833 make it hard for animals to move between them. 476 00:46:25,470 --> 00:46:27,623 Parks and gardens become islands. 477 00:46:29,970 --> 00:46:32,640 But animal populations are not healthy 478 00:46:32,640 --> 00:46:34,343 without a mixing of genes. 479 00:46:36,770 --> 00:46:40,933 So making corridors and linking green spaces helps wildlife, 480 00:46:42,490 --> 00:46:46,213 and help cities to function as more healthy ecosystems. 481 00:46:51,350 --> 00:46:53,180 Where species have managed to adapt 482 00:46:53,180 --> 00:46:56,123 and brave the urban adventure, they can do well. 483 00:46:58,260 --> 00:47:01,140 Bumblebees have been struggling in the countryside 484 00:47:02,740 --> 00:47:05,690 where fields are planted with single species 485 00:47:05,690 --> 00:47:08,083 and a cocktail of pesticides is used. 486 00:47:12,770 --> 00:47:14,293 But in urban areas, 487 00:47:16,800 --> 00:47:19,810 thanks to the variety of plants in our gardens, 488 00:47:19,810 --> 00:47:22,903 bumblebees live longer and produce more young. 489 00:47:38,329 --> 00:47:42,470 Foxes have been equally successful pioneers. 490 00:47:42,470 --> 00:47:44,310 In the U.K. countryside, 491 00:47:44,310 --> 00:47:47,743 foxes have declined by 40% in 30 years. 492 00:47:49,600 --> 00:47:51,710 But during that same time, 493 00:47:51,710 --> 00:47:54,727 urban foxes have increased by 400%. 494 00:47:59,920 --> 00:48:03,983 Despite losing their home, the fox family is doing well. 495 00:48:12,400 --> 00:48:14,560 The cubs already have enough street smart 496 00:48:14,560 --> 00:48:15,543 to make a go of it. 497 00:48:36,840 --> 00:48:39,500 The world is becoming an urban jungle, 498 00:48:39,500 --> 00:48:41,743 and wildlife is feeling the pinch. 499 00:48:46,430 --> 00:48:50,343 But it is ready and willing to adapt, if we let it. 500 00:48:52,360 --> 00:48:56,650 In cities, we can easily lose our connection to nature, 501 00:48:56,650 --> 00:48:58,453 which can damage our wellbeing. 502 00:49:00,470 --> 00:49:03,520 It's in our best interests, and theirs, 503 00:49:03,520 --> 00:49:06,723 to allow modern city ecosystems to develop. 504 00:49:09,430 --> 00:49:11,190 We can all help, 505 00:49:11,190 --> 00:49:14,143 making our living spaces more wildlife-friendly. 506 00:49:15,000 --> 00:49:16,930 And we can reap the benefits 507 00:49:16,930 --> 00:49:19,233 by spending time in our parks and gardens. 508 00:49:22,370 --> 00:49:23,663 In the urban jungle, 509 00:49:24,650 --> 00:49:28,973 we can be wildlife warriors, bringing nature home. 510 00:49:30,312 --> 00:49:33,145 (uplifting music) 511 00:49:33,145 --> 00:49:35,145 y�moovlmvhd